Jets center Mark Scheifele scored during Game 6 on Saturday, just one day after the unexpected passing of his father, Brad, leaving his participation in the game uncertain.
After his goal, SportsNet commentators remarked, “It’s for you, Dad!” They noted that the Jets’ official account had shared a moment mid-way through the second period that seemed particularly poignant. “I was going to do that,” they mentioned in response to the goal.
Sadly for the Jets, this effort wasn’t enough to secure a win, and they ended up losing 2-1 in overtime to the Dallas Stars, which eliminated them from the playoffs.
Brad’s death occurred overnight, and Jets general manager Kevin Cheveldayoff confirmed the news to reporters on Saturday. Scheifele opted out of the team’s morning skate.
However, Winnipeg coach Scott Arniel later stated that Scheifele would indeed be in the lineup.
“We want to extend our sincerest condolences,” Cheveldayoff added, emphasizing that everyone respects Scheifele and his family’s privacy during this time. He also mentioned that Dallas coach Scott Arniel returned to the team’s hotel to support Scheifele.
As of Game 6, Scheifele ranked second on the Jets for playoff points, having accumulated four goals and six assists throughout the postseason.
During the regular season, he had a standout performance, scoring 39 goals and reaching a career-high total of 87 points.
Other members of the Jets were informed of Scheifele’s father’s passing that same Saturday morning, according to Cheveldayoff.
Winnipeg captain Adam Lowry expressed the team’s sorrow, stating, “It’s a terrible loss. It’s tough to find the right words to express how we all feel about Mark and his family.” He added, “It’s a significant loss—your mentor, someone you hold in high regard. We need to make sure Mark feels supported as we move forward today.”
